James Constantine Kokas

James Constantine Kokas October 14, 1949 – May 2, 2025
James "Jim" Constantine Kokas passed due to complications from cancer on May 2, 2025. He passed away peacefully and surrounded by family at the age of 75.
Born in Detroit on October 14, 1949, Jim was the firstborn son of Constantine "Gus" Kokas and Helen (Zazas) Kokas. Arriving just a few years after the end of World War II, Jim proudly embodied the spirit of the Baby Boomer generation. As the first grandchild on both the Kokas and Zazas sides, Jim naturally stepped into a role of responsibility and leadership that he carried throughout his life.
Jim was a devoted brother to Andrew Kokas (Yizhuo Liang) and William Kokas (Jeanne Stevenson), and a guiding presence to many of his cousins, whom he loved deeply: Peter Anastos (deceased), Charles Anastos (Tracy), Eleni Anastos, Andrea Rogers (Doug), Jennifer Shandler (Jeff), Mary Ellen Miller (Scott), Emily Hatchett (Erik), and Kathryn Leventis. He loved all of his nieces, nephews, and Godchildren.
A born restaurateur, Jim's journey in food and wine began in the coney island-style diners of his grandfathers and great-uncles, later refined under the mentorship of his father at the Chambertin Restaurant in Dearborn. After earning his degree at the University of Detroit and briefly considering a career in teaching, Jim returned to his true passion-hospitality. His dedication culminated in the creation of Opus One, a landmark fine dining establishment in Detroit known for its elegance, world-class wine list, and impeccable service. From the late 1980s until its closing in 2013, Opus One served as a beacon for Detroit's cultural, business, and civic leaders and catered events at iconic venues including the Detroit Opera House and the Henry Ford Museum.
While Jim was immensely proud of his professional legacy, it was his family that ultimately brought him the deepest joy and fulfillment. He often said he was most humbled and inspired by the lives of his three daughters: Aynne Kokas (Andrei Marconescu), Amanda Mueller (Chris), and Lainie Bradley (Clem). Jim's legacy continues in his grandchildren-Leo, Sebastian, Henry and Sophia -who brought light and laughter to his later years. As he grew older, his perspective deepened and softened, a change warmly noted by those closest to him, especially his beloved aunts: Aynne Zazas (95), Constance Bageris (Plato) (91), and Cristine Leventis (Nick) (84), who survive him and grieve his passing with great love.
Jim Kokas was a man of generosity, strength, and refinement. He cared deeply for his family and friends, took great pride in his Greek heritage, and devoted his life to bringing people together over extraordinary food and wine. He will be remembered for his vision, his warmth, and his unwavering commitment to excellence in all he did.
Family will receive friends Friday, May 9, 2025 4-8 PM at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Rd., Troy (between Maple and Big Beaver), 248-362-2500. Trisagion 7 PM. Funeral Service Saturday, May 10, 2025 11 AM at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 36375 Joy Rd., Westland. Visitation at the church begins at 10 AM.
Memorial Tributes to Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church.